Many Arizona families assume that long-term care means moving into a facility. For people who qualify, that isn't always the case. The Arizona Long Term Care System, or ALTCS, can help eligible members receive support right at home.
What is ALTCS?
ALTCS is part of AHCCCS, Arizona's Medicaid program. It serves people who are 65 or older, or who have a disability, and who need a level of care similar to what a nursing facility provides. Members receive services through a health plan. In Arizona, UnitedHealthcare is one of the plans that participates in ALTCS.
What in-home help can ALTCS cover?
For eligible members, ALTCS can cover in-home assistance with daily activities, including:
- ✓Bathing and personal hygiene
- ✓Dressing and grooming
- ✓Mobility and moving safely around the home
- ✓Other daily activities identified in the member's care plan
The specific services and number of hours depend on each person's assessment and care plan, which is coordinated with their health plan case manager.
Who decides eligibility?
AHCCCS determines eligibility based on medical need and financial criteria. Applicants generally must live in Arizona and meet income and resource limits. If you think you or a loved one might qualify, you can apply through AHCCCS.
How Inspiration of the Valley can help
Inspiration of the Valley is a non-medical home care provider and currently supports UnitedHealthcare as an ALTCS health plan. If you're an ALTCS member with UnitedHealthcare, contact us to talk about starting care at home. If you don't qualify, private pay home care is also available.
Preparing to apply for ALTCS
The application process asks for detailed medical and financial information. Gathering documents ahead of time can make it smoother. Common items include identification, proof of Arizona residency, income statements, bank statements, and information about any property or insurance. A doctor's records describing your loved one's needs are also helpful.
What happens after approval
Once someone is approved, they are enrolled with an ALTCS health plan and assigned a case manager. The case manager works with the member and family to build a care plan, which includes the in-home services and hours approved. The member can then receive care from a provider that works with their plan.
Can a family member be the paid caregiver?
Many families want care to come from someone the member already knows and trusts. Through our home care family caregiver jobs, a family member may be able to join our team and get paid to care for a loved one who has approved ALTCS with UnitedHealthcare, or who is in a position to get it.
If ALTCS isn't the right fit
Not everyone qualifies, and approval can take time. Private pay home care lets families start support right away, on a schedule that fits their needs.
Are you an ALTCS member with UnitedHealthcare?
We can help you start in-home care. Talk with our team about next steps.